Spontaneity is cool but can leave you scrambling to look sexy. Tackle a last-minute date dilemma in the time you've got.

Got no time? "Swipe on lipstick [at right], then dab a small amount onto the apples of your cheeks and blend," says makeup artist Brian Duprey. For eyes, "dampen a cotton swab, and run it across the liner you applied in the a.m. to redefine it and nix smudges," says Duprey.

Got an hour? Hit a department store makeup counter for a touch-up. "Ask the counter rep to use gel formulations for eyes and stains on cheeks and lips," says Duprey. Both are made to last for hours (a good thing, should your date turn into a sleepover).

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You Haven't Shaved

Got no time? Buy a multiblade razor (single disposables can irritate when you're in a rush), and shave with hand or body lotion, says Francesca Fusco, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Finish with calming cream (right).

Got an hour? Book it to your waxer… or DIY with wax strips (the easiest at-home option) like Veet's, here. The pain-minimizing secret: Press down the strip, pull skin taut, then pull it back— not up—to remove hair, says Jessica Coba, cofounder of European Wax Center.

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You Really Need to Shower

Got no time? Wash up with cleansing wipes (go for gentle versions like Aveeno, right—scented or acneformulated ones can irritate you down there), and spray on perfume. Don't tote fragrance? Pop into a department store or beauty mecca (e.g., Ulta or Sephora), and sneak a spritz.

Got an hour? Head to your gym (or just Google the one closest to you and ask for a day or guest pass) to take advantage of the perks of a well-stocked locker room—even the mostbare- bones locations have shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Got no time? Dry shampoo (at right) solves both problems. Simply spray or sprinkle on, wait one minute for the powder to work its magic, then tousle away residue. Finish with a deep side part, which adds tons of volume, says Ammon Carver, artistic director of Matrix.

Got an hour? Pop into a blow-dry bar (they're cropping up everywhere) or your local salon for a blowout…or just ask for a cool braid or high, textured ponytail. "A little greasiness makes these styles look sleek, and neither requires volume," says Carver.